SIMPLICITY
Less is more.
In design, SIMPLICITY can showcase natural beauty and create elegance. Simple lines, forms, limited materials and colors, plus functionality are interesting and easy to understand, while complicated designs (with lots of materials, colors and squiggles) feel like a mess and can make a space feel uncomfortable. Simplicity does not equal boredom, but instead can provide a beautiful, functional, compelling outdoor space.
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Though it may seem straightforward, SIMPLICITY is often difficult to achieve. Always ask yourself if you can use less materials, limited colors, and simple lines. Make sure each of your choices has a reason for being included in the final design. Edit yourself constantly to achieve simplicity in the final design.
The design below was created by one of my Iowa State students. I love the simplicity of the bedlines.
RESOURCES in our DESIGN LIBRARY
The concept of SIMPLICITY takes into consideration an overall understanding of solid design...that includes applying good design principles and elements overall. We've covered many of these approaches in past Garden Design Guides. Take a peek at these below.
LINES OF FORCE
This Garden Design Guide explains a technique to build strong geometry and lines in your landscape, while also unifying it with existing architecture. Lines of Force is a fabulous way to unify a design and simplify it.
THEME GARDEN PROCESS
This Garden Design Guide covers my theme garden process...which includes narrowing in on colors and materials to simplify your design.
PLANTING MODELS
Planting Models are a great way to start conceptualizing patterns for the layout of a planting bed before jumping into the details of plant selection.
LEGIBILITY
Legible spaces are coherent, understandable, simple and organized. It involves organizing features in a way that allows someone to easily comprehend the spatial layout.
COLOR HARMONY
Color harmony in garden design refers to the strategic use of color to create a balanced, pleasing, and aesthetically cohesive outdoor space...perfect for simplicity.
GOODNESS FOR YOU THIS MONTH
Below you will find several more items to help you learn about SIMPLICITY. From written words to video to applied activities to group discussions. Explore our topic from different angles and gain a new perspective. Click on the images below to download PDFs of your Garden Design Guide and Activity. Further down you will find a video and links to our community, plus a Q+A too!
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I mentioned in the video that I created an additional landscape plan for this month's activity on 11x17 paper. You can grab that here. Please note there is a smaller version in your activity packet too.
VIDEO: CREATING SIMPLICITY IN THE GARDEN
OUR COMMUNITY + CHALLENGES
Don't forget to hang out with us this month.
Check in to share your activity. Try it out yourself or simply learn from the submissions of your peers. No need to stress. Just enjoy!
SIMPLICITY IN THE GARDEN
Share your drawing in our community and let us know how you applied SIMPLICITY to this very busy landscape.
Share a win!
What have you accomplished in the last month that makes you super happy? Let us celebrate with you!
Do you have a question?
Do you have a question on this month's topic or another design question? Let's all learn together!
LIVE SESSION
We'll have our normal Q+A this month, plus a bonus live sesion. Both will be recorded in case you can't make it (then posted right back here). Visit the Q+A SCHEDULE for times and link.
I can't wait to see you!
DESIGN INSPIRATION
Thursday, August 13
North America: Noon PDT | 1 PM MDT | 2 PM CDT | 3 PM EDT
London: 8 PM BST
Sydney: August 14 at 5 AM AEST
Monthly Q+A
Thursday, August 29
North America: 10 AM PDT | 11 AM MDT | Noon CDT | 1 PM EDT
London: 6 PM BST
Sydney: August 30 at 3 AM AEST
I'd love your feedback once you've devoured all this goodness.
Drop me a note at the email below and let me know what you loved and what could be improved. Thank you!
Please contact me at [email protected]
